Shirley V. Ponder, 91, passed away on May 9, 2025, at her home in Cape Coral, Florida.

She was predeceased by her parents, Lethia (Peggy) Olivia and Stanley Joseph Burdette; her husband, Gerald; and her sister, June Powell.

Shirley is survived by her children, Robin Prather (Dennis), Kimberly VanDress (John); and four grandchildren, Jonathan (Christina), Nicholas Prather, Hannah VanDress, and Madison VanDress.  She is also survived by three great-grandchildren; Sawyer, Charlotte, and Lincoln Prather.

Shirley was born in Washington DC, graduated from Eastern High School in 1951 and began a 38 year career in the Federal Government at The Corps of Engineers.  She transferred to NASA/GSFC in 1963 where she held various positions and formed lasting friendships.  She retired as a Communications Management Specialist in August 1989.  She enjoyed watching the Washington Redskins, following General Hospital, reading, and taking trips with her daughters.  Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her immense joy. >>